Congratulations to Cranberry Isles resident Gary Allen who was named the 2018 MarathonFoto/Road Race Management Race Director of the Year.

According to the press release "This year we had a remarkable group of nominees, and Gary emerged as the winner," said Road Race Management President Phil Stewart. Described by Bill Rodgers as "the Gold Medal of race directing," the award is one of the most prestigious honors in the sport of road racing. "Anyone nominated should be proud of their accomplishments," said Stewart.

Stewart went on, "Our winner has touched the soul of the running community in his home state in many ways - including lifting spirits in an economically depressed town by directing a free marathon, to gathering awards by local artisans for another. His accomplishments and energy are legendary in Maine."

His nominator said of him, "For Gary running has clearly defined who he has become, and he has energized the State of Maine by putting on Maine's finest marathon, the MDI Marathon. This race has been recognized byRunner's World as the most scenic marathon, and New England Runnermagazine has recently recognized this race as the race of the year.

"The running community and the State of Maine have greatly benefited from his tireless energy and vision put forth into action. Gary has the extraordinary ability to create a concept and act upon it in a meaningful way."

The legendary Amby Burfoot describes Gary best, "He is one of running's most creative minds and race directors. He's been putting on original and fun races for decades and I hope he never lets up."

Allen is the Race Director and Founder of the Mount Desert Island Marathon, the Millinocket Marathon as well as the Cross Country Coach of Mount Desert Elementary School.

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